How We Helped Nike Lace Up for Epic Store Openings in Durban and Cape Town

Picture this: the heartbeat of Durban’s street culture collides with Nike’s global brand power, and a few months later, Cape Town’s scenic V&A Waterfront sets the stage for another iconic launch. Sounds like a designer’s dream, right? At Maverick Design, we got to live that dream and then some. We were there for those who run Durban. We were there for those who run Cape Town. And yes, we brought our A-game.

The Kickoff: Nike Durban Takes Over Gateway

Nike came to us with a bold vision for their new store at Gateway Theatre of Shopping. They wanted a launch that was more than just another retail event. We’re talking a full-on celebration of the city’s love for sport, style, and all things vibrant. So, naturally, we strapped on our creative sneakers and got to work.

What We Brought to the Table

• Nike HQ Meets Durban Cool: We kept close contact with Nike’s marketing team, translating their global vision into a Durban experience that was anything but cookie-cutter.
• Adaptive Design That Wows: Working within Nike’s visual guidelines, we designed everything from store hoardings that built the hype to in-store visuals that made jaws drop.
• Marketing & Influencer Strategy: We tapped into Durban’s scene, collaborating with influencers who embody that iconic Nike “Just Do It” spirit.
• Copywriting with Swagger: From PR statements to email invites and social posts, we infused every word with Nike’s high-energy vibe.
• VIP Experience with a Twist: We pioneered the MVP/VIP experience in Durban, where guests could collect exclusive Nike Gift Boxes as part of their private shopping event. The online RSVP portal we created made sure everything ran smoothly.
• Digital Billboards & DJ Promos: Whether it was digital screens flashing bold Nike branding or custom posts for the DJs rocking the event, we made sure the launch was a multi-sensory feast.

Party Time: Exclusive Shopping & Star-Studded Guests

Opening night in Durban was nothing short of legendary. Guests were treated to a private shopping experience with some serious star power. The incredible Caster Semenya graced us with her presence, and a few of our World Cup-winning Springboks—including the ever-charismatic Jesse Kriel—brought even more energy to the space. Add Durban’s hottest DJs and high-energy dancers into the mix, and it was an event to remember. We’re talking a true celebration of sport, culture, and community.

The Cape Town Sequel: Power Your Next Move

Inspired by the success of the Durban opening, we brought the same MVP magic to Cape Town, with a few local twists. The Union Castle Building at the V&A Waterfront became our new playground, and we were ready to power things up. Despite a few hiccups (delays, anyone?), we pulled off a launch that did justice to the city’s love for the outdoors, running, and adventure.

The Cape Town MVP Experience

Just like in Durban, Cape Town VIPs were invited to an exclusive shopping experience from 9-11 AM, where they collected their Nike Gift Boxes. Inside each box, guests discovered a QR code inviting them to share their photos and videos of the experience—making the event interactive and capturing unforgettable moments. Our favourite line, “Here for those who run Cape Town,” set the tone for the day, and seeing it come to life felt like a finish-line victory.

The Fun Stuff: How We Celebrated You

Both launches were packed with entertainment. Durban had DJs and dancers setting the vibe, and Cape Town followed suit with an equally electric atmosphere. Our goal? To make these spaces come alive for the running community, athletes, and all lovers of Nike style. We’re here to power your next move, and we did everything we could to make sure you felt it.

Maverick Design: We Just Did It

Working on both these Nike openings was like running a creative marathon (with a few sprints thrown in for good measure). From liaising with Nike’s marketing team to dreaming up adaptive designs and ensuring every tweet, post, and press release dripped with Nike coolness, we left it all on the field.

Final Thoughts

So, here’s to those who run Durban. Here’s to those who run Cape Town. Here’s to YOU. Because at the end of the day, it’s your love for sport and style that inspires projects like this. We’re just happy to be along for the ride, designing, strategizing, and celebrating right there with you.

Until the next big launch!